Take a look at how you spend your time when you’re working and creating your art. Is there anything that’s taking longer than you feel it should? Is there a way that you could adjust things to use your time more efficiently?

Keeping a journal of your creative process can help you manage your time better by figuring out (and eliminating/modifying) the factors that are slowing you down.

Target What Works and What Doesn’t

Keeping a journal can also help you target what works and what doesn’t work within your process. Do you notice that you consistently struggle with a certain technique but often have success with another? Do you stall when pursuing an idea one way but find yourself buzzing with energy when you move forward another way?

Use that knowledge to refine your creative process by focusing on what brings you success. Or, if you’re feeling up to it, take a look at what’s not working and figure out how you could turn things around so it will work for you.

Pinpoint Habits

Habits can be so ingrained that we don’t even notice them. Using a journal to track your process can help you pinpoint those habits – good and bad.

If you identify any bad habits that are hindering your work, you can become more aware in the future to keep them under control. If you find good habits that are working in your favor, then you can utilize them and maximize their helpful potential.

Find Your Peak Hours

Along with the date, try tracking the specific time of day you work. Are there times when you’re sparking with creative energy and times when you struggle? Most people have peak hours and those who are artistic can be even more sensitive to the times when we’re in our zone and the times when we’re forcing it.

By keeping track of the specific times that you’re working, you can spot the periods when you’re at your best to arrange your schedule fittingly.

Identify Influences

Do you produce more insightful art with music on or in silence? Do you work well when it’s warm or do you thrive in a chilly environment? Is your work more inspired when there are other creative people around you or does isolation inspire greatness in you?

The smallest elements can influence artistic outcomes and journaling your creative process can help you focus on any possible outside factors that are influencing your work.

Capture Creative Memories

Journaling doesn’t just have to be about perfecting your process, it can also be about capturing creative memories. Looking back at past projects, watching your progress and artistic growth can be a wonderful benefit of keeping a journal of your creative process.